Introduction / History

The Kolah are a blacksmith caste, and the Lohara are one of their subgroups. They live in northern Odisha and speak Odia, the local language of that state.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Kolah people are skilled blacksmiths. They make and sell iron goods.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Kolah Lohara people practice Hinduism, the ancient religion of India. Hinduism is a catch-all phrase for the local religions of South Asia, so it is very diverse. At the popular level, Hindus worship and serve the gods of the Hindu pantheon. They visit Hindu temples and offer prayers, food, flowers, and incense to their gods in hopes of gaining protection and benefits. They do not have a personal or familial relationship with their gods like Christians or Jews. There are other Hindus who are much more philosophical, especially among the Brahmins.

Almost all Hindus participate in yearly celebrations like Holi, the festival of colors and the start of spring / Diwali, the festival of lights / Navratri, the celebration of autumn / and Rama Navami, Rama's birthday.

What Are Their Needs?

Like all other peoples of the world, this people group needs the blessings and guidance that only Jesus Christ can offer.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Lord to bless this community economically and spiritually.

Ask God to raise up Kolah Lohara who are more desirous to know the truth than to stay on the broad road.

Ask God to send loving, committed workers to the Kolah Lohara in the near future.

Pray the Kolah Lohara would no longer be hidden away from the influence of Christ.

Pray for many of them to make disciples who will make even more disciples.

Scripture Prayers for the Kolah Lohara in India.

References

https://www.ostm.in/tribes_of_odisha/kolah/